There is a lot of sadness and anger in Northern Nigeria after 16 hunters were killed in Uromi, a town in Edo State. The men were attacked by local people and vigilantes who wrongly thought they were criminals. The mob beat them and burned them alive.
The hunters were traveling with legal hunting rifles when they were stopped. Even after explaining they were not criminals, the mob attacked them. Some people who saw the attack did not try to help.
Now, the hunters’ community is demanding justice. Some have warned that if the government does not act, there could be revenge attacks.
Dr. Isma’il Tanko Birnin Kudu, a retired commander from the Joint Task Force in Kano, called the killings a terrible crime. He praised the Edo State Governor for visiting Kano and removing the vigilante leader, but said more must be done.
Dr. Tanko said that those responsible for the mob attack must be arrested and taken to court. He said justice must be clear and public so people can trust the system.
He also asked the government to help the families of the dead hunters with money and support. He believes the families need closure and help to move on.
Dr. Tanko wants the government to say sorry to the Hunters Association of Nigeria, which is a respected group that helps with security. He said this group is trusted across the country and deserves respect.
He also said vigilante groups should not be run by untrained people. He wants retired military officers to train them, so they know how to handle things properly and peacefully.
Meanwhile, the Toronke Hunters Association in Kano is very angry. Their leader, Alhaji Musa Dogo, said if justice is not served, they will not stay quiet.
Across Nigeria, people are asking the government to act quickly, bring justice, and stop the situation from getting worse.